Charlotte Woman Wins $500,000 in Powerball Double Play Drawing

  • Laura Pugerude of Charlotte won $500,000 in a Powerball Double Play drawing on December 17, 2025.
  • The odds of winning such a prize were 1 in 11.6 million.
  • Pugerude bought her ticket at Charlotte’s Landing on Express Drive and matched all five white balls to claim the $500,000 prize.
  • After tax withholdings, she received $358,751.

The Exciting Journey of Laura Pugerude’s Win

In a thrilling twist of fate, Laura Pugerude of Charlotte celebrated her recent victory in the Powerball Double Play drawing. The excitement of this win has not only brought joy to Pugerude but also highlighted the allure and unpredictability of lottery games.

The Lottery Drawing: A Chance for Fortune

On Saturday, December 17, 2025, Pugerude purchased a $3 Powerball ticket that included the Double Play feature. This add-on allowed her to play her numbers in an additional drawing, significantly boosting her chances of winning the substantial prize. The numbers drawn were 25, 33, 53, 62, and 66 with POWER PLAY 17.

Claiming the Prize: A Step-by-Step Process

Pugerude’s luck paid off as she matched all five white balls in the Powerball Double Play drawing. According to the North Carolina Lottery, the odds of winning such a prize are one in 11.6 million. Following her win, Pugerude made an appointment at lottery headquarters on Thursday, December 20, 2025, where she collected her winnings.

However, it is worth noting that federal and state taxes reduced the amount significantly. After these withholdings, Pugerude took home $358,751, a life-changing sum for many but still leaving room for further financial planning and investment.

The Powerball Double Play Feature: A Unique Addition

The Powerball Double Play is an intriguing addition to the game. It allows players like Pugerude to play their numbers in a separate drawing, providing another chance at winning up to $10 million. This feature adds excitement and potential for greater rewards, making it a popular choice among lottery enthusiasts.

Conclusion

A Reminder of Lottery’s Impact

Laura Pugerude’s win serves as a reminder of the power of chance in people’s lives. While her story is one of unexpected fortune, it also underscores the importance of financial planning and responsible gambling practices. For now, Pugerude can reflect on her remarkable day and look forward to the future with hope and anticipation.

Meanwhile, the Powerball jackpot stands at an estimated $1.5 billion in annuity or $686.5 million in cash for the upcoming drawing scheduled on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

This high value continues to attract players from across the state and beyond.

The North Carolina Lottery offers a variety of games that allow players to choose between retail locations or online play through their website or mobile app. With options like Powerball and Double Play, there are always new opportunities for individuals to participate in these exciting games of chance.